Introduction: Why Phyllis Minkoff’s Story Matters
When people think about Maury Povich, the legendary host of the long-running tabloid talk show Maury, they often remember his catchphrases and dramatic reveals. But long before he became a household name, there was someone who stood by his side at the beginning of his career—Phyllis Minkoff. Though she is often introduced as Maury Povich’s first wife, Phyllis is much more than that. She has built her own identity as a respected public relations and communications expert, political supporter, and philanthropist. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and quiet impact. Let’s take a closer look at who Phyllis Minkoff is, her personal journey, her marriages, and her life today.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Phyllis Minkoff
Date Of Birth: February 15, 1941
Age (As Of 2025): 84 Years Old
Place Of Birth: Washington, D.C., USA
Current Residence: Greater Pittsburgh, USA
Parents: Ida Minkoff (Mother), Hyman Joseph Minkoff (Father)
Sibling: Larry Minkoff
First Husband: Maury Povich (1962–1979)
Second Husband: Phillip Baskin (1980–2005, until his death)
Children: Four Daughters – Susan Anne, Amy Joyce, Shoshana Nudel, Janice Gondelman
Profession: Public Relations And Communications Expert
Estimated Net Worth: Around $1 Million
Early Life And Background
Phyllis Minkoff was born on February 15, 1941, in Washington, D.C. She grew up in a close-knit family with her parents, Ida and Hyman Joseph Minkoff, and her brother, Larry Minkoff. Her upbringing in the nation’s capital exposed her to politics, culture, and public affairs from an early age, which may have influenced her later professional interests. Although she has always valued her privacy, those who know her often describe her as independent, strong-minded, and compassionate. These qualities would shape her later roles as a wife, mother, professional, and advocate.
People Also Read: Priscilla Esterline Biography: Early Life, Family, and Marriage to John Mellencamp
Marriage To Maury Povich: A High-Profile Relationship
In 1962, Phyllis Minkoff married Maury Povich, who was then at the start of his career in broadcasting. At the time, Maury was a young journalist climbing his way through local television before reaching national recognition. Their marriage lasted for 17 years, and together they had two daughters, Susan Anne Povich and Amy Joyce Povich. While Maury’s professional life took off, Phyllis found herself in the public eye simply by association. Despite the attention, she remained grounded and focused on her family. The marriage symbolized stability during Maury’s early rise, but as their lives grew in different directions, challenges soon followed.
Divorce From Maury Povich: What Really Happened?
After nearly two decades together, Phyllis and Maury divorced in 1979. The reasons for their separation were never fully made public, though speculation has long surrounded the split. Some reports suggested that Phyllis began a relationship with another man—attorney and councilman Phillip Baskin—shortly before her divorce was finalized. What is clear, however, is that both Phyllis and Maury moved on with their lives without dwelling on the past. The divorce marked a turning point for Phyllis, giving her a chance to step out of the shadows and redefine her own path.
Life After Divorce: Moving Forward
Following her divorce, Phyllis proved that her identity was not defined by her marriage to a television star. She began to focus more deeply on her career in public relations and communications, while also raising her daughters. Rather than chase the spotlight, she chose to live more privately, putting her efforts into meaningful work and family responsibilities. Just a year after her divorce, she remarried, beginning a new chapter that would last for more than two decades.
Second Marriage To Phillip Baskin
In 1980, Phyllis married Phillip Baskin, a respected Pittsburgh attorney and city councilman. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Shoshana Nudel and Janice Gondelman. Their marriage lasted for 25 years until Phillip’s death in 2005 from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. This second marriage was not just a new beginning for Phyllis but also a partnership rooted in civic duty, law, and community service. Living in Pittsburgh, she shifted her focus from the celebrity world of her first marriage to a quieter life dedicated to family and local causes.
Career In Public Relations And Communications
Beyond her marriages, Phyllis Minkoff built a career of her own. She became a successful communications and public relations professional, working with a variety of organizations. Known for her ability to navigate media and politics, Phyllis aligned herself with several political figures over the years, including Hillary Clinton during her 2017 presidential campaign, as well as Bernie Sanders and Joe Kennedy III. She also took pride in supporting women’s empowerment, joining movements such as the Women’s Liberation Front. Additionally, her philanthropic work included contributions to nonprofits and animal shelters across the United States.
Children And Family Life
Family has always been at the heart of Phyllis Minkoff’s story. With four daughters from her two marriages, she has embraced motherhood as her most important role. From her first marriage to Maury Povich, she has Susan Anne and Amy Joyce, who both pursued their own paths. With Phillip Baskin, she welcomed Shoshana and Janice, who grew up in Pittsburgh surrounded by their father’s political involvement. Her daughters reflect her values of independence, education, and resilience, and they remain a central part of her legacy.
Net Worth And Lifestyle
Phyllis Minkoff’s estimated net worth is around $1 million, much of which comes from her long career in communications and PR, as well as her philanthropic involvement. While this may seem modest compared to Maury Povich’s reported $80 million fortune, it reflects her choice to live a life that prioritizes family, personal values, and meaningful work over fame and wealth. Today, she enjoys a quieter lifestyle in Greater Pittsburgh, surrounded by family and continuing her support for causes she believes in.
Where Is Phyllis Minkoff Now?
As of 2025, Phyllis Minkoff is 84 years old and living in Greater Pittsburgh. Though she no longer seeks public attention, she continues to support charitable organizations and advocate for women’s empowerment. She lives a private yet purposeful life, cherishing time with her family while remaining active in the community. Unlike many who are connected to celebrity marriages, Phyllis has chosen dignity and independence, showing that her story is about much more than being “Maury Povich’s ex-wife.”
Conclusion: Phyllis Minkoff’s Legacy Beyond Fame
Phyllis Minkoff’s life may have started in the public eye as the wife of a rising television star, but her journey has been defined by much more than marriage. From building a respected career in communications to raising four daughters and engaging in political and philanthropic causes, Phyllis has carved out her own path. Today, she represents resilience, independence, and the strength to live with dignity outside of celebrity shadows. Her legacy reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful lives are lived not in front of the camera, but behind the scenes, quietly shaping families and communities for the better.
FAQs About Phyllis Minkoff
Who Is Phyllis Minkoff?
Phyllis Minkoff is an American public relations and communications expert best known as the first wife of TV host Maury Povich.
How Old Is Phyllis Minkoff?
She was born on February 15, 1941, making her 84 years old as of 2025.
How Many Children Does Phyllis Minkoff Have?
She has four daughters: Susan Anne and Amy Joyce from her marriage to Maury Povich, and Shoshana Nudel and Janice Gondelman from her marriage to Phillip Baskin.
Why Did Phyllis Minkoff And Maury Povich Divorce?
They divorced in 1979 after 17 years of marriage. While speculation exists, the exact reasons remain private.
Did Phyllis Minkoff Remarry?
Yes, she remarried in 1980 to attorney and councilman Phillip Baskin, with whom she remained married until his death in 2005.
What Is Phyllis Minkoff’s Profession?
She is a communications and public relations specialist who has also been active in political advocacy and philanthropy.
What Is Phyllis Minkoff’s Net Worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, earned through her career and personal endeavors.
